The subject is one
that leaves people speechless and upset: animals who have been mistreated and
starved by their owners. But what New Jersey animals rights organization, Associated Humane Socieities' Newark Animal
Shelter, found in a garbage chute one
day was more shocking than anything that had come before.

Inside a plastic bag, they found a bundle of misery: a dog
so emaciated that he was barely more than skin and bones. But even though the
picture suggests otherwise, this poor dog was somehow still alive!

How this dog ended up in the garbage is not known. But
thanks to his registered chip, his previous owner was able to be located. This
person allowed Patrick, who was given the name after his rescue, to go hungry
for so long, and just watched as the dog slowly wasted away.

The poor dog was immediately taken to a special animal
hospital because his life was hanging on by a thread. Emaciated animals like
Patrick have to be reintroduced to food very slowly because their stomachs have
gone without it for so long.

Patrick was kept warm with heating pads and blankets because
his body, devoid of fat, ran the risk of losing heat too quickly.

During this time, Patrick was constantly petted and
sheltered. His previous owner's unkindness had almost killed him, so it was
time for him to learn what loving care meant.

Then a miracle happened: After a few days, Patrick was able
to do his business outside. He was still very weak, but the hope of him
surviving grew with every passing day.

It took a long time for Patrick to fully recover from the
physical and psychological trauma he had sustained. Despite his loving care, he
remained shy and frightened of people.

Today Patrick is the perfect picture of a healthy, happy,
and well-nourished dog. He is lively and enjoys the love of the woman who
adopted him.

People who are cruel to animals do not deserve to be near
them, let alone own them. As it turns out, Patrick’s previous owner had been
arrested for other offences. Luckily, everyone involved in Patrick's recovery
believed in him, and never gave up. This sweet dog is now so full of love, and
he has learned to give his trust to those who have earned it.